Eriksen, Virgilius. Portrait of Catherine II in front of a mirror Hermitage ~ part 13
Hermitage ~ part 13 – Eriksen, Virgilius. Portrait of Catherine II in front of a mirror
Edit attribution
Download full size: 1129×1476 px (0,7 Mb)
Back to album: Hermitage ~ part 13
Album navigation:
You cannot comment Why?
Here we see the subject adorned in an opulent gown of pale yellow silk, embellished with intricate embroidery and shimmering details that catch the light. Her hair is styled elaborately, incorporating jewels and ribbons. In the reflection within the mirror, she appears to be holding a scepter and wearing a crown, though these elements are partially obscured by the angle and depth of the mirrored image.
The artist has employed a technique emphasizing luminosity; the pale hues of the gown contrast with the darker background, drawing attention to the figure’s presence. The use of light is not merely descriptive but also serves to highlight her status and authority. The mirror itself functions as a crucial element, creating a doubling effect that suggests both self-awareness and an awareness of how she wishes to be perceived.
Subtly, the mirrored image introduces a layer of complexity. While it ostensibly presents a full representation of the woman – complete with symbols of power – the partial obscuring hints at a constructed persona. The viewer is invited to consider what lies beyond this carefully curated presentation. The placement of the crown and scepter in the reflection, rather than being visibly held by the figure, could be interpreted as an assertion of inherited or divinely ordained authority, rather than one actively wielded.
The overall effect is one of controlled grandeur. It’s a portrait designed not just to record likeness but also to convey power, legitimacy, and a carefully crafted image of regal composure. The composition speaks to the importance of representation and self-fashioning in positions of leadership, suggesting that appearances are paramount.